Stratocumulus (Sc) - the name derives from the latin words stratus = flattened layer or spread out and cumulus = mass or heap. Stratocumulus is a member of the ten fundamental cloud types (or cloud genera). It is a low-level cloud, thus it usually forms within the lowest two kilometers (6,600 ft) of the atmosphere. Like its 'middle-level brother' the altocumulus cloud stratocumulus are formed by weak, shallow convection currents, perhaps triggered by turbulent airflows aloft. The convection affects a shallow zone because dry, stable air above the cloud sheet prevents further upward development.